title: Regulation of uterine matrix metalloproteinase-9 and the role of microRNAs.
abstract: Controlled expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) is vital for normal uterine physiology, whereas abnormal expression of MMP9 is associated with uterine disease. Despite the importance of MMP9 within the uterus, its regulation is poorly understood. In this review, the complex regulation of MMP9 within the uterus is highlighted, and the potential novel role of microRNAs in the regulation of this protease is discussed. Emphasis is placed on the necessity to enhance our understanding of the regulation of MMP9 expression, which may lead to the establishment of novel approaches to counteract misexpression of this protease and the diseases associated with it.
authors.affiliation: Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA. wnothnic@kumc.edu
authors.forename: Warren B
authors.initials: WB
authors.lastname: Nothnick
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D015971:Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic; D006801:Humans; D020780:Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism; D035683:MicroRNAs / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D008954:Models, Biological; D014176:Protein Biosynthesis; D014599:Uterus / Q000201:enzymology / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D035683:MicroRNAs; D020780:Matrix Metalloproteinase 9